Fox Valley in 60 seconds

Elgin parking survey online

The city of Elgin is seeking opinions about a trial even-odd parking schedule established for four test neighborhoods from September 2008 through March 2009 to aid with snow removal and leaf collection. The test was in the Gifford/Summit Park, Randall Ridge, Southwest Area and Cobbler's Crossing neighborhoods. The city is considering expanding the parking program. To participate in the survey, visit cityofelgin.org. The survey is open through April 10.

Teacher among award finalists

A teacher from Liberty Elementary School in Carpentersville is among the 30 finalists for the Golden Apple Award. Sandra Bennett, a first-grade teacher at the Community Unit District 300 school, is one of the 30 Chicago-area finalists for excellence in teaching preschool through third grade. The finalists will be honored at an April ceremony in Chicago. The Golden Apple Foundation will announce the 10 winners in May. Each winner receives a tuition-free semester at Northwestern University, a personal computer, $3,000 and membership in the Golden Apple Academy.

Tidal Wave auction/dance Saturday

St. Edward Central Catholic High School in Elgin will hold its 20th annual Tidal Wave Auction/Dinner Dance, with the theme "Fruit of the Vine," on Saturday, April 4, at the Stonegate Centre in Hoffman Estates. More than 300 are expected to attend. Cost is $80 per person, which includes dinner, dancing, silent/live auctions and an open bar. Items up for bid will include Michael Jordan and Derrick Rose autographed basketballs, a wine tasting party, sporting events tickets, several Chicago Bears autographed footballs, restaurant gift certificates, electronic products and more. To attend, call (847)741-7536, ext. 123.

ECC job fair

Elgin Community College has waived the $275 registration fee for employers participating in the college's Thursday, April 2, job fair, which will take place from 3 to 7 p.m. in the Spartan Events Center, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin.